What are Car Keys Made of? The Surprising Contents of Your Vehicle's Ignition
Have you thought about what car keys are made of?
You probably don't give it much thought, but the materials that your key is made of are essential.
Your key must be strong enough to start your engine and resistant to wear and tear.
You will see what are the different materials used to make car keys and the security implications of using other materials to make car keys. We will also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each material.
So, what is a car key made of? Keep reading to find out!
The Different Types of Car Key Materials Available
There are a variety of materials that can be used for car keys, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here are the types of car key materials:
Metal Keys
These are the most durable option. The most common type of metal key is the steel key.
- Steel keys are solid and stable but can also be susceptible to rust and corrosion.
- Brass keys are another popular option, as they offer a similar level of durability to steel keys but are less likely to rust or corrode.
- Aluminum keys are the lightest weight option, but they may not be as durable as steel or brass keys.
- Finally, titanium keys are the most robust and durable option, but they can be expensive.
Plastic Keys
These are less durable but usually much more affordable. Most car keys are made of plastic.
Here are the three main types of plastic used in car keys: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
- ABS is a robust and durable plastic resistant to chemicals and heat.
- PC is a clear, hard plastic often used in high-end car keys.
- PVC is a soft, flexible plastic often used in low-end car keys.
These are made from a combination of different materials and offer a balance of durability and cost.
Composite car keys are made from various materials, including metal, plastic, and rubber. They are designed to be durable and withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
Composite keys are also resistant to corrosion and can last longer than traditional metal keys.
Different Types of Car Keys
Car keys can broadly be classified into two categories: laser-cut keys and electronic chip "transponder" keys.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are sometimes called "sidewinder" or "spider" keys. They have a jagged, zig-zag cut on one side and are cut by a high-precision laser. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate because the stakes must be precise.
Electronic Chip "Transponder" Keys
On the other hand, Transponder keys have an electronic chip that sends signals to the car's ignition system. This signal tells the vehicle that the key is authorized to start the engine. If a transponder key is not used, the vehicle will not start.
These smart keys are also difficult to duplicate because each chip must be programmed individually.
Most modern cars now use transponder chips, but laser-cut keys are still used on some older car models.
What are Car Key Fobs?
Car key fob comes in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Some have buttons that can be pressed to open the door or trunk, while others have an actual key that must be inserted into the ignition.
Some key fobs are remote car starters to start the engine from outside the vehicle.
Choosing the Right Materials for Your Car Key?
When it comes to car keys, there are a lot of different materials that can be used. However, not all of these materials will be suitable for all new automotive keys and traditional keys.
It is essential to choose a suitable material for your car key. It would help to remember some aspects when selecting the appropriate material for your spare key, car key replacement, and smart keys.
The durability of the material
Choose a material that will be durable enough to withstand regular use. If you select a material that is not durable, your car key will break easily, and you will always need a replacement key.
Weight of the material
You want to make sure that the material you choose is not too heavy so that it will be comfortable to carry around with you. If the material is too heavy, it will be difficult to carry around and could cause problems if you drop it.
Cost of the material
Finally, you want to consider the cost of the material. You want to make sure that you choose a material that is affordable and will not break your budget.
How to Care for Your Car Key, so it Lasts Longer
Your car key is one of the essential parts of your vehicle. It's what gets you in and out of your car and helps start the engine.But did you know that there are a few things you can do to help extend the life of your car key?
Here are a few tips:
- Avoid putting your key in a place where it will be exposed to extreme temperatures. This means keeping it out of the sun or cold and away from heaters or air conditioners.
- Do not drop your key, as this can damage the internal components.
- If your key shows signs of wear, take it to a professional to have it serviced or replaced.
These will help you extend the life of your car key and avoid costly repairs down the road.
The Importance of Choosing a Reputable Locksmith to Make Your Car Key
There are many reasons why you should only entrust your car key to a reputable locksmith.
They are skilled and trained to get the job done right. They also have the right tools to do the job quickly and efficiently.
Moreover, reputable locksmiths are insured and bonded, so you can ensure that your car is in good hands.
But more than being skilled and experienced, a reputable locksmith should also be someone you can trust.
After all, you'll share personal information with them, such as your car's make and model and contact details.
That's why choosing a locksmith you can feel comfortable with is essential.
And that's why we at Paul Quick Locksmith are the perfect choice for all your car key needs.
We're a reputable and trustworthy locksmith service in New Jersey that has been serving the community for over 20 years.
We're insured and bonded, so you can be confident that your car is in good hands. We're also available 24/7, so you can always count on us when you need us most.
We can make a new key replacement, extra key set, or if you're in an emergency lockout, don't hesitate to call us.
We'll be happy to replace and secure your vehicle from car theft. And we promise that you won't be disappointed with our service.
It's time to experience the services that we can do for you. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
